Tegillarca granosa

Species of ark clam

Tegillarca granosa, commonly known as the blood clam, is a species of ark clam found in the intertidal zones of the Indo-Pacific region. It is notable for its reddish blood, which contains hemoglobin, a characteristic that is unusual among bivalve mollusks.

Description

Tegillarca granosa has a robust, thick shell with a rounded, somewhat triangular shape. The shell surface is covered with concentric ridges and is typically white to gray in color. The interior of the shell is smooth and white. The clam's blood is red due to the presence of hemoglobin, which is rare among bivalves.

Distribution and Habitat

Tegillarca granosa is distributed widely across the Indo-Pacific region, including the coasts of India, China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. It inhabits intertidal mudflats and estuaries, where it burrows into the sediment.

Ecology

The blood clam is a filter feeder, drawing in water through its siphons and filtering out plankton and organic particles. It plays a significant role in the ecosystem by contributing to the nutrient cycle and providing a food source for predators such as birds and fish.

Human Use

Tegillarca granosa is harvested for food in many parts of Asia. It is considered a delicacy in countries like China and is often consumed raw or cooked. However, the consumption of raw blood clams has been associated with health risks due to the potential presence of pathogens such as Hepatitis A and Hepatitis E viruses.

Conservation

While Tegillarca granosa is not currently listed as endangered, overharvesting and habitat destruction pose threats to its populations. Sustainable harvesting practices and habitat conservation are important for maintaining healthy populations of this species.

Gallery

File:Tegillarca granosa shell.jpg

Shell of Tegillarca granosa

File:Tegillarca granosa habitat.jpg

Intertidal habitat of Tegillarca granosa

Related pages

• Bivalvia
• Arcidae
• Mollusca